Al Williams served two tours in Vietnam in four years with the navy. Like many middle-age “Baby Boomers” who grew up after World War II, Williams listened to relatives’ stories, however, he learned there was a darker side to the experiences of millions of African American Soldiers and little written material that addressed this history. Williams’ interest in this aspect of American military history prompted a years-long quest for information and, ultimately, this book. Williams, a retired Seattle Police Homicide detective, lives in Stanwood, Washington, with his wife of 32 years, Mary.